How is the chimney swept?
Utilising the very latest in chimney sweeping technology, together with a powerful specialist industrial vacuum with HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) Filters to remove the dirt, soot & debris from your chimney.
The area immediately in front of & around the fire place/stove will be covered & protected to prevent any dirt/dust & debris from entering the room. During this, a specialist powerful vacuum cleaner with HEPA filters will be on at all times during the chimney sweep catching all of the soot & debris that falls from the chimney/flue. It can take up to approximately 90 minutes from start to finish to sweep the average chimney effectively.
Throughout the whole process I maintain complete respect for your home.
Once the above process is complete, I will carry out a smoke test to ensure a good draw and that an adequate flow through the flue is achieved.
Finally, I will provide you with a certificate as a receipt and a record of the chimney sweep. Insurance companies are requesting these more often and your home insurance may be invalidated if you were to have a chimney fire without a record or proof that your chimney has been swept regularly.
Why do I need my chimney swept?
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•To avoid chimney fires first & foremost.
•To help eliminate the risk of deadly Carbon Monoxide poisoning
•To allow your fire to work & burn effectively, efficiently and safely
•A clean chimney is a safer chimney. - The sweeping frequencies below are for guidance purposes only:-
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• Smokeless fuel: At least once a year
• Wood: Quarterly when in use
• Bituminous coal: Quarterly when in use
• Oil: Once a year
• Gas: Once a year
How often should I have my chimney swept?
Frequency will depend on a number of factors which include the type of fuel used, appliance, duration of use, moisture content of wood fuel and the type of chimney you have. I can advise you on the sweeping frequency during the appointment.
As a general guide, for occasional evening and weekend use, once a year is enough. For more frequent use, you should have your fire swept once before you start having fires then once again half way through the burning season.
These are recommendations only and I will always advise you if I feel your circumstances should vary. It is important to check the wording of your home insurance policy as some companies have their own particular requirements, especially if you own a thatched property.
